Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the perfect balance of sweet and salty, and this Salted Caramel Ice Cream delivers on both fronts. The creamy texture of the ice cream paired with the rich, buttery caramel sauce creates an indulgent treat that will have you savoring every bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a way to elevate your dessert game, this homemade ice cream is guaranteed to impress.
-Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp sea salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp sea salt
-Instructions
Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
1️⃣ In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow the mixture to simmer.
2️⃣ Cook until the sugar turns a deep amber color, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 6–8 minutes.
3️⃣ Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly. (Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.)
4️⃣ Stir in the unsalted butter and sea salt until smooth. Set the caramel sauce aside to cool to room temperature.
-Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and sea salt until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2️⃣ Stir in the vanilla extract for a touch of warmth and depth in flavor.
3️⃣ Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly cold.
-Step 3: Combine the Caramel with the Base
1️⃣ Once the caramel sauce has cooled, set aside 1/4 cup for drizzling later.
2️⃣ Mix the remaining caramel sauce into the chilled ice cream base, stirring until fully incorporated.
-Step 4: Churn the Ice Cream
1️⃣ Pour the caramel-infused ice cream mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes about 20–25 minutes.
2️⃣ Once the ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, transfer it to a freezer-safe container.
-Step 5: Add the Caramel Swirl
1️⃣ Drizzle the reserved caramel sauce over the ice cream in layers as you transfer it to the container. Use a knife or spoon to swirl the caramel gently into the ice cream.
2️⃣ Cover the container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
-Serving Suggestions
Serve this decadent Salted Caramel Ice Cream in a bowl, waffle cone, or even sandwiched between cookies for a gourmet twist. Add toppings like:
Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or almonds)
Whipped cream
Chocolate shavings
Extra caramel drizzle
-Pro Tips for Success
1. Watch the Caramel: The caramel can go from perfect to burnt very quickly. Keep a close eye on the color, and remove it from heat as soon as it turns amber.
2. Cool the Caramel Completely: Adding hot caramel to the ice cream base can curdle the cream, so ensure it’s at room temperature.
3. Chill the Base Thoroughly: A cold ice cream base ensures better texture and faster churning in the ice cream maker.
-Creative Variations
1. Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks during the final minutes of churning.
2. Caramel Coffee Ice Cream: Add 1 tbsp of instant coffee granules to the ice cream base for a mocha-inspired treat.
3. Nutty Caramel Ice Cream: Swirl in chopped toasted pecans or almonds with the caramel for added crunch.
4. Boozy Caramel Ice Cream: Stir in 1–2 tbsp of bourbon or rum for a grown-up twist.
-The Backstory: How This Recipe Came to Be
This Salted Caramel Ice Cream was inspired by the desire to elevate a classic dessert with a touch of sophistication. Salted caramel, a flavor born out of Brittany, France, has become a worldwide favorite for its perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Combining this flavor with a creamy ice cream base transforms a simple treat into a luxurious indulgence.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and whole milk creates a luscious texture.
Perfect Sweet-Salty Balance: The sea salt enhances the deep caramel flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Versatile and Customizable: You can adjust the saltiness, sweetness, or add mix-ins to suit your taste.
-Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 21g
Sugar: 28g
-Conclusion
This Homemade Salted Caramel Ice Cream is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging on a quiet evening or wowing guests at a dinner party, its creamy texture and rich caramel flavor make it unforgettable. Plus, the process of creating it from scratch is as rewarding as the first scoop.
So grab your ice cream maker, whip up a batch, and treat yourself to a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Churn Time: 25 minutes
Freeze Time: 4 hours
Total Time: ~5 hours